[Niigata Prefecture] The world of ink paintings of "Kiyotsukyo Gorge," one of Japan's three great valleys

Located deep in the mountains of Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture, Kiyotsukyo Gorge is one of Japan's three major gorges. The cherry blossoms in spring, the fresh greenery in summer, and the autumn leaves in autumn are all beautiful, but winter is a time of monochrome and silence, reminiscent of a sumi-e painting, and offers a unique beauty not seen in other seasons. It is also recommended because it is the off-season compared to spring and autumn leaves. However, the opening hours are shorter in winter (9:00-16:00 *reception closes at 15:30), the mountain roads are slippery, and the nearby souvenir shops and restaurants close early. Be careful as it tends to close quickly. The passage tunnel is lit up, and the drain tunnel is also decorated with modern art design, making it very unique and stylish. There is also a see-through toilet with a great view. The innermost tunnel, which is filled with a thin layer of water and is the biggest attraction, is a must-see. When there is no wind, the surface becomes a beautiful mirror, so the reflections are breathtaking. 📍Location: 2119-2 Koideki, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 🕰️Tunnel reception hours: 8:30-16:30 (Opening time 17:00)/ Winter 9:00-15:30 (until 16:00) 💰Tunnel entrance fee: 1000 yen for adults, 400 yen for children (up to junior high school students), free for preschoolers Open all year round *Due to heavy snowfall in the winter of 2025, the mine will be temporarily closed from 2/5. Reopening date undecided The bus with the best access to Kiyotsukyo is from Echigo Yuzawa Station #Niigata Prefecture #Amazing view #Snow scenery #Seasonal places in Japan